MANCHESTER, UNITED KINGDOM--(Marketwire - Sept. 19, 2010) - Swinton Commercial is warning van drivers about the dangers of driving under the influence of drugs, after George Michael's conviction of the offence and subsequent sentence to eight weeks in jail.

The UK van insurance retailer issued the warning after Michael crashed his Range Rover into a London shop while under the influence of cannabis, an illegal class C drug.

Whilst it is an offence under the Road Traffic Act 1988 to drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs, a lack of a drug testing kit, such as a breathalyser for alcohol testing means a minority of people think they can get away with it.

Drivers under the influence of drugs can suffer from an inability to concentrate, slower reaction times, unpredictable or aggressive behaviour, fatigue and dizziness.

However, Swinton Commercial is also warning van drivers that everyday prescription drugs can also impair the skills required to drive a van safely. The van insurance retailer's advice is to check the label and do not drive until it is safe to do so.

Phil Moss, Commercial Vehicle Manager at Swinton said, "Anything that compromises your ability to drive safely, whether it is alcohol, illegal drugs or even prescription drugs is highly dangerous. It is a driver's own responsibility to make sure they are fit to be behind the wheel. Driving under the influence carries hefty penalties, a fine, and penalty points or in George Michael's case a jail term. Expect massive increases on your van insurance premiums too if you are caught."

About Swinton:

Swinton Commercial is the dedicated commercial insurance division of the Swinton Group

Swinton Commercial was awarded Commercial Lines Broker of the Year 2008 and is a finalist at the British Insurer Awards 2009

With 580 branches nationwide Swinton is the UK's largest high street insurance retailer

Unlike many other companies in the financial services industry, Swinton is committed to keeping its branches open for business, and part of the community

Swinton provides a one-stop-shop for the insurance and related needs of its clients, offering home, car, caravan, business, holiday, motorbike and even classic car insurance

With a dedicated team of advisors on hand at every branch to search a panel of insurers to offer quality cover at competitive rates